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By Chad Finn, Boston.com Staff

Patriots cornerback Aqib Talib is questionable to return to the AFC Championship Game after suffering a knee injury early in the second quarter.

Talib, essential to the Patriots' defensive backfield against the high-octane Broncos offense, was hit in the back and ribs by Wes Welker on a crossing pattern with 13:36 remaining in the second quarter. The pass, intended for Demaryius Thomas, was incomplete.

Talib remained on his back on the field for a couple of minutes before walking off on his own power. He headed to the Patriots locker room with trainers, returned to the sideline briefly midway through the second quarter, then returned to the locker room before halftime.